Digestive Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Digestive Discomfort: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： If you are experiencing discomfort in the area around your navel, you may want to consider issues related to the intestines. <br>Pay attention to whether you feel like you are not fully emptying your bowels, or if you are experiencing early symptoms of enteritis or diarrhe

Abdominal discomfort?

Hello Doctor, last year around mid-year, I experienced indigestion and bloating, and after undergoing an endoscopy, the doctor said I had mild gastritis and a bit of reflux, but didn't provide much information.
Later, I took traditional Chinese medicine and felt better.
A few months later, starting a couple of days ago, I began to feel a slight stomach ache if I don't eat on time.
Even after eating some food, I still feel a bit of pain that resembles hunger pangs.
After eating a portion that usually fills me about 70-80%, I still feel a slight discomfort around the area just below my navel, along with mild nausea and slight pain similar to hunger pangs.
I can tolerate it, but it feels like I'm improving and yet still somewhat uncomfortable.
Could this be gastritis or a peptic ulcer? (Or could it be constipation blocking my intestines?) Additionally, I would like to ask, since I occasionally feel gastrointestinal discomfort or indigestion over the past few years, and my health check-ups including endoscopy and colonoscopy generally show no family history of issues, how often should I get checked at the age of 40? Should I have examinations only when I feel unwell? Thank you!

Mil, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/15

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: If you are experiencing discomfort in the area around your navel, you may want to consider issues related to the intestines.
Pay attention to whether you feel like you are not fully emptying your bowels, or if you are experiencing early symptoms of enteritis or diarrhea (even if diarrhea has not yet occurred).
Additionally, avoid spicy foods.
If you have a fever, you should seek medical attention promptly, as this could indicate conditions such as enteritis, diverticulitis, or cystitis.
If your health check-up with gastroscopy and colonoscopy showed no polyps or issues that require monitoring, and you do not have a family history, it is generally sufficient to have these tests every 3-5 years after the age of 40.
If you have symptoms that meet the criteria for testing, that would be a different situation.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2022/04/15

More Info

Digestive discomfort can be a complex issue, often stemming from various causes, including dietary habits, stress, and underlying medical conditions. Based on your description, it seems you have experienced episodes of digestive issues in the past, including mild gastritis and some reflux symptoms. Recently, you have noticed recurring discomfort, particularly when you haven't eaten for a while, accompanied by mild nausea and pain that resembles hunger pangs.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Gastritis or Gastric Inflammation: Given your history of mild gastritis, it is possible that your current symptoms could be related to inflammation of the stomach lining. This condition can cause discomfort, especially when the stomach is empty, as the acid can irritate the lining.

2. Peptic Ulcer Disease: While your symptoms could suggest the presence of a peptic ulcer, especially if you experience significant pain that improves with eating, it is essential to consider other factors. Ulcers can cause similar symptoms, but they are often associated with more severe pain and may require further evaluation through endoscopy.

3. Functional Dyspepsia: This is a common condition characterized by chronic or recurrent pain in the upper abdomen without any identifiable organic cause. It can lead to symptoms like bloating, nausea, and discomfort after meals.

4. Bowel Obstruction or Constipation: If you are experiencing significant changes in bowel habits or if you have a history of constipation, this could lead to discomfort. However, if you are passing stool regularly, this is less likely to be the primary issue.

When to Seek Help
You should consider seeking medical attention if:
- Your symptoms worsen or become more frequent.

- You experience severe abdominal pain that does not improve.

- You notice any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as black or bloody stools or vomiting blood.

- You have unintentional weight loss or persistent nausea and vomiting.

- Your discomfort significantly affects your daily life or ability to eat.

Recommendations for Monitoring and Screening
Regarding your question about screening, the general recommendation for individuals without a family history of gastrointestinal diseases is to begin regular screenings for colorectal cancer at age 45. This typically involves a colonoscopy every ten years, but this can vary based on individual risk factors and previous findings. If you have any concerning symptoms, such as changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal pain, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider sooner.

For your upper gastrointestinal symptoms, if they persist or worsen, a follow-up with a gastroenterologist may be warranted. They might recommend further diagnostic tests, such as an upper endoscopy, to evaluate the state of your stomach and duodenum more thoroughly.

Conclusion
Digestive discomfort can arise from various sources, and while your symptoms may be related to previous issues, it is essential to monitor them closely. If you experience any alarming symptoms or if your discomfort continues, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Regular screenings are crucial for early detection of potential issues, especially as you age. Maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and staying hydrated can also help alleviate some digestive symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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